User`s guide

Chapter 1
How to Use DCL Commands
This chapter explains how to use DCL commands. For more information, use the
on-line INDEX or the RT–11 Master Index, or see the Introduction to RT–11. That
manual covers in more detail many topics that are only briefly described here.
DCL Commands Defined
The Digital Command Language (DCL) is a standard interface between a user and
a Digital operating system. DCL as implemented on the RT–11 operating system
is also called the KMON (keyboard monitor) command language, because you issue
DCL commands at the keyboard and because the KMON monitor interprets the
commands.
A DCL command is an instruction to the computer enabling you to control the
computer from the keyboard. Most DCL commands are English-like words that
symbolize the action you want done. For example, DIRECTORY, PRINT, SHOW,
and TIME are DCL commands.
DCL Command Parameters Defined
A command’s parameters are the command’s input; that is, the information, file, or
files on which the command is to act. Most DCL commands act on files, but some
act on storage locations in your processor’s memory. For example, the PRINT and
COPY commands print and copy files, but the DATE and TIME commands modify
memory locations holding the current time and date.
How to Use DCL Commands 1–1